The businesses that had survived by intimidation were sold or dissolved. Leo’s shipping and construction companies became legitimate employers, with outside audits and retirement plans that could not be touched by men like Bradley.

Some former allies walked away. Others became enemies. But Leo no longer met every problem with violence. Sometimes he came home furious, placed his pistol inside the safe, and carried Dominic around the kitchen until the anger left his body.

On Dominic’s first birthday, the estate was no longer silent. Children ran through the garden. Sarah argued with Vincent over the proper way to cut a birthday cake.

Danny stood near the fountain, looking healthier than Chloe had seen him in years.

Leo found Chloe beneath an old maple tree. She wore a blue dress, and Dominic rested on her hip with frosting smeared across his face. Leo took a ring from his pocket.

Chloe narrowed her eyes.